best like

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "best like" is not a correct or commonly used phrase in written English.
It could potentially be used colloquially or informally in spoken language, but it would be considered incorrect in formal writing. Example: "I don't know what you're talking about, but I like it best like that." (colloquial/informal use).

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

I create best like that".

The Guardian - Music

Dogs live at best, like, twelve years, right?

The New Yorker

Those who know Baron best like to tease him about his sayings, which they call Baronisms.

The New York Times - Sports

"I just try to do my best like any other player.

Independent

"Financially, I live, at best, like a twenty-five-year-old," he said.

The New Yorker

Young veterans face stiff competition for the jobs that fit them best, like policing.

The New York Times

The Philharmonic can recruit him to do what he does best, like conducting the Bruckner Seventh.

The New York Times - Arts

I like his portraits best – like the one of Mo Mowlam in the National Portrait Gallery.

Independent

How might the Chinese best like to snack on their almonds?

The New York Times

But at best, like Mr Schuler's plan, it seems far from ideal.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

A good Christmas would be defined as the best like-for-like figures among the three quoted operators.

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Avoid using "best like" in formal writing. Opt for grammatically correct alternatives such as "most preferable" or "most suitable" to ensure clarity and professionalism.

Common error

Avoid directly comparing items or actions using "best like". Instead of saying "This works best like that", rephrase to "This works best when done that way" for grammatical accuracy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "best like" is often used in a descriptive manner, attempting to draw a comparison or express preference. However, as Ludwig AI points out, this construction is not grammatically sound and should be replaced with more suitable alternatives.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

32%

Wiki

19%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

4%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while the phrase "best like" appears in various sources, it's crucial to recognize that it's not considered grammatically correct in formal English. Ludwig AI analysis emphasizes this point, suggesting the use of more appropriate alternatives such as "most preferable", "most suitable", or other context-specific phrases. Although frequently encountered, especially in News & Media and Science, adhering to proper grammar enhances clarity and credibility in written communication. Therefore, it's advisable to steer clear of "best like" in professional or academic settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

most preferable

Replaces "best like" with a direct synonym emphasizing preference.

most suitable

Focuses on the appropriateness of something, rather than a general liking.

ideally suited

Similar to 'most suitable', but adds a nuance of perfection or high compatibility.

perfectly fitted

Emphasizes a precise and ideal match, often in a more tangible or literal sense.

most effective

Shifts the focus to the efficiency or success of something, rather than pure preference.

optimally designed

Highlights the intentional creation of something for a specific, positive purpose.

best-loved

This alternative replace "best like" to add information regarding fondness or affection.

greatly enjoyed

Similar to 'best-loved', but focus on expressing a sense of delight or enjoyment.

highly valued

Focuses on worth and importance, often in a professional or objective context.

favorites

Rephrases "best like" to focus on preference, but using the plural term.

FAQs

What's a more formal way to say "best like"?

For a more formal tone, replace "best like" with phrases such as "most preferable", "most suitable", or "ideally suited", depending on the context.

Is "best like" grammatically correct?

While you might encounter "best like" in informal contexts, it's generally considered grammatically incorrect in formal writing. It's safer to use alternatives to ensure clarity and correctness.

How can I use "most effective" instead of "best like"?

Instead of saying "This method works best like this", you could say "This method is most effective when implemented in this manner", emphasizing efficiency.

What's the difference between "best like" and "greatly enjoyed"?

"Best like" is generally incorrect, while "greatly enjoyed" expresses a sense of pleasure or appreciation. For example, instead of "I best like this approach", you could say "I greatly enjoyed this approach" to convey personal enjoyment.